the duchess will see you now

Winter Walk

Snow storms are the best part of winter. Peppino and I just took a two hour long walk and it was exhilarating. Itchy thighs are a reminder of my childhood, when going outside to play was something we just did, regardless of the weather, because we craved it. (I wonder if this itchiness is the kind NieNie talks about with her grafts?)

As a child in a grown-up body, going out on a day like today seems a bit forced, but afterward I always feel great, like I am alive! I’ve been told that the Norwegians go outside everyday, no matter what the weather. Ever since I heard that I have tried to make it my practice as well, mainly because I struggle so desperately every winter to endure the darkness and the cold. I figure it might be easier to bear if I reversed the roles and took from winter rather than letting winter take from me.

So, Peppino and I carried our umbrellas because in the beginning the snow was sleety. We talked about frustrating injustices, new-found energy, and planning for the future as we made our way to a half-way point and coffee shop lattes. Once upon a time we talked over our drinks and through our smoke about moving to France together. “Over our drinks and through our smoke, to Paris, France we go…”

Now that I am home the flakes are the size of quarters and flying around in the air like the flakes in a snow-globe. I wish I had someone to play with some more!

The other great part about winter weather and coming in from the cold is hot soup. I made this hot and sweet vegetable and tofu soup the other day and was able to heat up a bowl on the stove after our walk.